COLONOSCOPY

A colonoscopy is a common procedure that can help to detect any abnormal changes within the rectum and large colon. During the procedure, a long and flexible tube known as a colonoscope, is inserted into the rectum. The tip of the tube contains a tiny camera that gives the doctor a clear view of the inside of the colon.

For many patients the procedure is painless, though you may experience slight discomfort.

WHY WOULD YOU NEED IT?

Patients can be referred for a colonoscopy for a variety of reasons. These include:

Long-term changes in your bowel habits
Constipation
Diarrhoea
Itchy anus
Anal discharge or bleeding

The procedure can help to investigate these symptoms, as well as screen for colon cancer, and remove polyps. Patients aged 50 and over with no other risk factors, will typically undergo a colonoscopy every 10 years to screen for bowel cancer.

A colonoscopy is just one way to screen for cancer, and it can help to catch the condition early. Younger patients can also request colon cancer screening if they are worried about their risk.

It poses few risks and takes anywhere between 15-60 minutes, depending upon if biopsies need to be taken and if any polyps need to be removed.

COLONOSCOPY TREATMENT

Although a colonoscopy is a common and straightforward procedure, patients are often anxious or worried on the day of the treatment. We are here to help make the experience as stress-free and comfortable as we can.

Before you undergo a colonoscopy, you will need to drink a strong laxative provided to you. This is designed to empty the bowels before the procedure.

Lubricating jelly may be used around the rectum to make it easier for the colonoscope to be inserted. You will be asked to lay on your side while the procedure is being carried out. As the tube passes through the colon, you may feel a similar pain to trapped wind, and like you need to empty your bowels.

We usually carry out a colonoscopy under sedation. This allows you to fully relax, though you may experience a little discomfort throughout the procedure. On average it takes up to 30 minutes, and you may find you have little memory of the treatment once the sedation wears off.

A colonoscopy is just one way to screen for cancer, and it can help to catch the condition early. Younger patients can also request colon cancer screening if they are worried about their risk.

It poses few risks and takes anywhere between 15-60 minutes, depending upon if biopsies need to be taken and if any polyps need to be removed.

COLONOSCOPY TREATMENT

Although a colonoscopy is a common and straightforward procedure, patients are often anxious or worried on the day of the treatment. We are here to help make the experience as stress-free and comfortable as we can.

Before you undergo a colonoscopy, you will need to drink a strong laxative provided to you. This is designed to empty the bowels before the procedure.

Lubricating jelly may be used around the rectum to make it easier for the colonoscope to be inserted. You will be asked to lay on your side while the procedure is being carried out. As the tube passes through the colon, you may feel a similar pain to trapped wind, and like you need to empty your bowels.

We usually carry out a colonoscopy under sedation. This allows you to fully relax, though you may experience a little discomfort throughout the procedure. On average it takes up to 30 minutes, and you may find you have little memory of the treatment once the sedation wears off.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

— I’ve been advised to have a colonoscopy - should I be worried about bowel cancer?

A colonoscopy is a common procedure carried out to detect a range of problems. Most people who have one do not have bowel cancer. However, it can help to detect bowel cancer at its earliest stage.

— What is recovery like?

A colonoscopy is typically carried out as a day case, meaning you can return home the same day. Immediately after the procedure, you will be taken into a recovery room until you feel well enough to leave. You may feel a little bloated, and if you have had a polyp removed, there may be a little bleeding from your rectum. These symptoms will clear up quickly.

— Is it painful?

You shouldn’t experience any pain during the procedure, though you may feel some discomfort. To counteract this, you can choose to take a sedative or painkiller if preferred.

— Are there any risks or complications?

In rare cases, a colonoscopy can lead to the following risks and complications:

Perforation of the bowel
Heavy bleeding from the rectum

If you experience these symptoms, you can contact Mr Woodward for advice.

COLONOSCOPY

COLONOSCOPY

WHY WOULD YOU NEED IT?

COLONOSCOPY TREATMENT

COLONOSCOPY TREATMENT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For more information or to make an appointment,
please call my secretary Ceri Hatcher on 01443 449277.

For more information or to make an appointment,
please call my secretary Ceri Hatcher on 01443 449277.

CLINICS

NUFFIELD HEALTH THE VALE HOSPITAL

NUFFIELD HEALTH CARDIFF BAY HOSPITAL

COLONOSCOPY

COLONOSCOPY

WHY WOULD YOU NEED IT?

COLONOSCOPY TREATMENT

COLONOSCOPY TREATMENT

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

For more information or to make an appointment, please call my secretary Ceri Hatcher on 01443 449277.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call my secretary Ceri Hatcher on 01443 449277.

CLINICS

NUFFIELD HEALTH THE VALE HOSPITAL

NUFFIELD HEALTH CARDIFF BAY HOSPITAL

For more information or to make an appointment,
please call my secretary Ceri Hatcher on 01443 449277.

For more information or to make an appointment,
please call my secretary Ceri Hatcher on 01443 449277.